Wonderful Gorontalo

Gorontalo province mostly contains of mountainous area that stretches form the north to the south of the province. The Mountainous panorama of Gorontalo is magnificent.

The mountains and forests are the homes of unique animals and trees. Anoa, tarsius, maleo bird, babi rusa (deer pig) are among the rare species that can be found here. Maleo, for instance, is a species of birds which lay eggs bigger than themselves. While Tarsius is the smallest primate in the world; it has approximately 10 cm length.

You can find Ebony, Lingua, Nantu, Meranti and Rattan trees in Gorontalo’s forest. In the south part of Gorontalo’s sea, which is known as “Teluk Tomini”, there are a number of small islands which spreads around the sea. Those islands are still unsettled and  beautiful white sands surround each of them. Teluk Tomini (Tomini Bay) is a heaven for divers, because the geographic position of “Teluk Tomini” itself, which is crossed by the equator line, has naturally presented various kinds of sea creature inside.

Other Places of Interest:

Potanga Pool

Potanga Pool. Approximately 4 km from the center of Gorontalo town, Potanga pool has natural cool and fresh water, comes from the natural mountain spring.

Pentadio Resort

Pentadio Resort on the north of the Limboto Lake or 12 Kms from the center of Gorontalo City. This resort has complete spa, facilities, cottage, swimming pool and hot spring water pool.

Otanaha Castle

Otanaha Castle. In the past, the Kings of Gorontalo used Otanaha castle as a place of protection and defense. The unique of the castle applies in the material that was used to build the castle, which was the mixed of sand, plaster and the white part of Maleo egg. The panorama of Danau Limboto also can be seen clearly from the castle of Otanaha, because the castle itself stands in the top of the highland. Precisely, the castle is located in Dembe I, Kota Barat. The distance of the castle is approximately 8 km from the center of Gorontalo city. Beside Otanaha castle, there are two more castles that also located in the same area, Otahiya and Ulupahu castles. The visitor must pass 345 steps of stairs to reach the three of the castles because of its position that located in the top of the highland. There is also alternative way to be able to reach the top of the mountain.

Nani Wartabone Monument

Nani Wartabone Monument. It is a historical monument of a local Gorontalo hero, named Nani Wartabone. He played an important role for the independence of Gorontalo. This monument is located in the center of Taruna Remaja Gorontalo Park.

Mesjid Hunto (Sultan Amai)

Mesjid Hunto (Sultan Amai). Hunto Mosque is one of the oldest mosque in Gorontalo (300 years old). The Mosque is located in Siendeng Village in Gorontalo city. In this mosque, there are well and beduk (an Islamic traditional drum) that has the same age as the Mosque itself.

White Sand of Leato

White Sand of Leato. The seashore with its white sand give us an impression of ma¬king refreshment to the visitors. Watch the process of repairing wooden boat in traditional way. The underwater life of this place is quite interesting. The beautiful coral-reef, the unique of fishes and sunken ship has become the attraction for the divers. This beach is located on North Leato, about 12 km from the town center.

Olele Sea Garden

Olele Sea Garden is distinctive from others and has the marine resources. It is closest diving point, only 45 minutes from Gorontalo city. Other diving site is Lahilote Beach.

Limboto Lake

Limboto Lake. A village named Iluta, which is 10 km from the town center, marks the entrance of this Lake. The unique characteris¬tic of this lake lies on the variety of freshwater fish species, which only can be seen on this lake. Besides, on this lake there was a landing field for the amphibian airplane name Katelina, which carried The First President of Republic Indonesia, Bung Karno.

The Tower of Majesty

The Tower of Majesty. The Tower of Ma¬jesty is a tower with 60 meters height. On the top of this tower, there are telescopes, which are served to explore the beautiful sight of Limboto Lake. Inside this tower you can see many of displayed souvenir and some restaurants.

Natural Hot Spring Water Bath of Lombongo

Natural Hot Spring Water Bath of Lombongo which is located on Lombongo village, Suwawa 20 km away from the town center. There are natural hot spring water bath, cold spring water bath, playground, and the stage for art performances. The hot water spring contains sulfur that can cure any skin diseases.

Tangga 2000 and the Footprint Lahilote

Tangga 2000 and the footprint Lahilote. On this tourism area, you will directly face the beauty of Tomini Bay. This location is facilitated by shop and recreation places. The shady coconut trees give you cooler atmos-phere in the evening. See a huge stone looks like human footprint, “Lahilote”, located on Pantai Indah Pohe, Kota Selatan. Historically, Lahilote was a footprint of a man who married a falling angel.

Ayuhulalo Waterfall

Ayuhulalo Waterfall is located on Ayuhulalo village (Ayuhulalo means moon woods), Tilamuta. It is about 5 km away from the District of Boalemo. Its environment provides a fresh atmosphere for the visitor, because shady green woods with its everlasting and fresh water surround this area.

The Beautiful Boalemo Beach

The Beautiful Boalemo Beach. It is white sand seashore with calm and clear water, can make yourself comfortable and relax, swimming, boating, and diving. Along the seashore, there are coconuts and pine trees. Moreover, it has some luxuries resorts.

Bitilia Sea Garden

Bitilia Sea Garden some diving spots with remarkable beautiful underwater view. This place is 15 minutes drive from Boalemo Indah Beach.

Bolihutuo Beach

Bolihutuo Beach. In most part of part of Bolihutuo beach grows giant pines tree, it has created the cool and calm atmosphere around the beach. White sand that spreads around the beach has made the beauty of the beach more complete. There are also available some cottages.

Bajo’s Tribe Villages

Bajo’s Tribe Villages (Tilamuta, Torosiaje, Popayato) Bajo’s tribe lives in a group and has their own culture and habit. They always make activities on the boat and they work as a fisherman. The Bajo’s tribe that still live in the boat is called as “Bangau”, because wherever they move around from one island to another islands in the end they will be back to the Toro Pantai Island to cultivating pearl and sea grass.

Central of Kerawang

Central of Kerawang Handicraft Industry (Karawo). Kerawang is one of Gorontalo’s traditional handmade cloth.

The Sacred Cemetery of Ju Panggola

The Sacred Cemetery of Ju Panggola. Sacred cemetery of Ju Panggola built in 14th century is located in the sub district of Dembe I, 8 km from the center of Kota Barat in Gorontalo city. People of Gorontalo that live around the cemetery consider this cemetery as a sacred place because it has a unique characteristic, related to the Islam culture. Therefore, it isn’t surprising to find out that many of visitors do meditation around the cemetery area.

Rumah Adat (Traditional House) Gorontalo

Rumah Adat Gorontalo (Bantayo Poboide) Traditional house is located in the center of sub-district of Limboto, Gorontalo. Lite¬rarily “Bantayo” means building and “Poboide” means place for meeting. Bantayo Poboide is taken apart as a symbol of Gorontalo culture and also has a function as a place for the activity that related to the art and culture of Gorontalo.

Bantayo Poboide has many rooms and each room has a different function, and every ornament that applies in the building symbolized every part of Gorontalo inhabitant’s activity.

Pantai Olele

Pantai Olele This beach is a gate to the underwater paradise. The amazing beauty of underwater life on this area has been recognized by many of the divers in the world. It is proofed by the enthusiasm of the divers who come to this area.

ENTRY POINTS

Regular flights service to Jalaludin Airport, from Manado or Makassar.

HISTORY

In the past, several kingdoms formed some kind of brotherly alliance called Pohalaa. There were five, namely Gorontalo, Limboto, Suwawa, Boalemo and Atinggola. In late 19th century, Dutch colonized this area until Japan took over. After Japan lost in WW2, Dutch tried to reign again by creating a puppet country, but the people vehemently opposed this so Gorontalo became a part of Indonesia in 1950.

It used to belong to North Sulawesi province. In 2000 it was stated to be a new province but this was not legalized until 2001. Gorontalo is the 32nd province of Indonesia.

CUISINE

Culinary enthusiast should try milu siram. It's a soup made of corn, fish, salt, grated coconut, chili and lime. It can be found almost anywhere, most notably in the stalls around the market at night. Dutch influence also makes Gorontalo one of the best bakeries in Indonesia. Cakes and pastries are delectable and suitable for your people with sweet tooth.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

The locals belong to Malay, Polynesia group. People of Ternate, Tidore, Bugis, Makassar are also abundant here.

TOURISM OFFICE

Dinas Perhubungan dan Pariwisata Prov. Gorontalo

Jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 57

Kota Gorontalo

Phone/ Fax. (62-435) 827615

www.gorontaloprov.go.id

10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Indonesia

No wonder if Indonesia has a lot of charm and diverse wealth. Especially in the coast. Because a lot of the beach - the beach that has a view of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Due to the geographical position of Indonesia itself is located in parts of the equator, so do not be surprised if it has some richness is extraordinary beaches.

From many of its beaches, there are 10 beaches that have views of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Among these are the following.

Senggigi Beach (Lombok)

The beach is an archipelago located in Lombok NTB. Senggigi beach itself is also a famous tourist destination to foreign countries. This beach has underwater scenery is very beautiful, and I wonder if snorkelling is a major tourist there. Senggigi beach also has a very beautiful coral reefs, and even some towering in the middle - the middle of the ocean.

Kuta Beach (Bali)

Who does not know the Kuta beach. Kuta Beach is also a very beautiful beach and many visited by tourists every day. Kuta beach itself is located in the south of Denpasar Bali. This beach visitors usually come to enjoy the sunset Beach. And even Kuta Beach has been famous since the 1970s.

Pangandaran Beach (West Java)

The next is the most beautiful beach Pangandaran beach. Pangandaran beach itself is located in the village of Pananjung. In fact, according to some well-known media AsiaRooms one of them, who called Pangandaran beach as the best beach on the island of Java.

Pantai Parai Tenggiri (Bangka Belitung Island)

This beach is famous for granite rocks that have very unique shape. Parai Tenggiri beach is located in Matras region, Sungailiat, Bangka Belitung. In addition to granite rocks, this beach has white sand and blue water and calm.

Parangtritis Beach (Yogyakarta)

The next beautiful beach Parangtritis beach is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean. This beach is famous for having a mountain - the high dunes, so the taste in the desert.

Bunaken Beach (Manado)

The beach is located at Bunaken national park has a beautiful underwater world. A lot of foreign tourists who come for a snorkel or diving. Not only that, the beach Bunaken also has a very beautiful white sand.

Pelabuhan Ratu Beach (West Java)

The beach is located in Sukabumi, which is also a beach located on the coast of the Indian Ocean. For the season - a particular season, a lot of beaches in the world visited by surfers because it has waves with a height of 3-5 meters.

Sanur Beach (Bali)

In addition to Kuta beach, Bali Sanur Beach which also has become one of the tourist destination. This beach is located in the east of the island of Bali. In addition to relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sun Rise.

Dreamland Beach (Bali)

Another one is the most beautiful beach in Bali, Dreamland beach. The beach is located in the southern part of the island of Bali. No wonder if the beach is much surrounded by cliffs - the high cliffs and beautiful views equipped with clean white sand.

Raja Ampat Beach

This beach including beach that has a view of the most exotic of Indonesia. The beach is located in the area of West Papua, and is the largest marine park owned by Indonesia. Because 75% of coral reefs are located in the world, is on the beach Raja Ampat.

Indonesia Travel

10 The Best Place To Honeymoon in Indonesia

Indonesia has all the requirements to become a best honeymoon. There is a tempting blue ocean, a beautiful city, so its pretty quiet lake. Compiled following detikTravel 10 best honeymoon destinations in Indonesia

1. Raja Ampat, West Papua

Not only divers paradise, Raja Ampat is also a paradise for newlyweds. Underwater beauty, coral reefs, and beaches, will supplement the special moment to spend your honeymoon.

Located in West Papua, Raja Ampat beauty has been known to foreign countries. There are hundreds of species of coral and beautiful marine fish species in its waters. On the beach each small islands, white sand seductive. For newlyweds, enjoying the Raja Ampat is a dream honeymoon. You as a honeymoon in paradise!

Inn or resort most famous in Raja Ampat is Missol Eco resort. At the rate of millions of rupiah per night, you can relax with a blue ocean in front of you. Clear sea water with ornamental fish and corals are so clearly visible beneath you. It feels so perfect to spend time in this place with loved ones.

2. Bukittinggi, West Sumatra

London does have cold air and cool. In the daytime, you will not feel hot in the city. Although already crowded vehicle, the atmosphere was calm and not chaotic. This is the appeal of London to be the reference of your honeymoon.

Several attractions can be visited as a couple. There Sianok canyon, the Clock Tower, until the hole is Japan. You can rent a buggy, traditional vehicles such as wagon, to surround the city. Do not forget to take pictures with, because the scenery is very beautiful.

To stay, there are many luxury hotels around the Clock Tower. Koceknya started from Rp 200 thousand to millions of rupiah per night. The atmosphere and the air in New York City, became the main treat for the newlyweds.

3. Makassar, South Sulawesi

Makassar was suitable to be a honeymoon the newlyweds. There are natural treats in the form of underwater riches, to the culinary variety that you can enjoy as a couple there.

Makassar never deserted visited by the tourists, not to mention the new bride. As the capital of South Sulawesi province, there are many choices of places to stay ranging from grade to grade jasmine star.

For about the tour, Makassar has several places of interest. You can dive into the underwater world at Samalona Island, enjoy the sunset at Losari, feel the cool Malino, or visit the historic fort Fort Rotterdam. Do not forget to taste the delicious typical cuisine Makassar as a couple.

4. Yogyakarta

Not only backpacker, newlyweds can also spend a honeymoon period in this Gudeg City. Yogyakarta has many places of interest and a wide range of attractions, as well as the variety of lodgings.

Yogyakarta quite perfect as a honeymooning couple. In the city, there Malioboro filled with various and diverse culinary souvenir sellers. You can spend time with family in this famous Malioboro while accompanied by a distinctive atmosphere. In addition, other attractions you can explore with your partner, among others Taman Sari, Ratu Boko Palace, Prambanan, a wide range of tourist village, to Parangtritis and beaches in Gunung Kidul.

In the city center there is a wide variety of accommodation ranging from backpacker to five-star class will be easily found. Visit Yogyakarta as a couple will feel very pleasant. Do not forget to watch the show Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan temple, this is a love story of Rama and Shinta.

5. Ubud, Bali

Every traveler, would agree if Ubud used as destinations for honeymoon. If Kuta is the party of young people full of frenetic, then Ubud is a place full of tranquility. No bikini-clad woman or a young man who was carrying a bottle of beer, in Ubud only green fields and forests and a quiet atmosphere.

That's what makes Ubud as the perfect place for honeymooners. In addition to the atmosphere, there are also the attractions of interest to visit. Objects include Elephant Cave, a wide variety of themed art museum, Sukawati Market, and much more.

To spend the night, there are many hotels and resorts are ready to pamper you as a couple. Overnight in Ubud would be a sensation that is not forgotten, the atmosphere will warm your romance with your partner.

6. Nanggu Gili, Lombok

Want to feel honeymoon with white sand? Just come to Gili Nanggu in Lombok. This small island is located in West Lombok, or about 1 hours drive to the south of Sheet Harbour. Here there is a bright blue sky, white sandy beaches, and the sea water is turquoise.

Gili Nanggu was only one venue, namely Gili Nanggu Cottage. Uniquely, this traditional-style cottage complete with thatched roof. However, not a few newlyweds stay at this place and the experience unforgettable.

In the afternoon, you can snorkeling and playing in the white sand. Wait at dusk, sunsetnya will be a sweet dessert while you enjoy the atmosphere of the beach with friends.

7. Lake Toba, North Sumatra

In North Sumatra, there were stretches of beautiful Lake Toba. This natural beauty can be the honeymoon destination of your next destination. The charm of the lake will fill the beautiful days you both.

Nan calm expanse of blue water with views of the surrounding green will calm view. Wading Lake Toba as a couple by boat, will be an unforgettable experience. In the middle of the lake, there is Samosir Island are typical Batak culture.

Around the lake there are many inns that you can occupy. Stay overnight with friends there and feel the beauty of Lake Toba each time.

8. Kampung Sampireun, Garut

Sampireun village in Garut, is a resort that is located above the lake with the nuances of Sunda thick. Romantic atmosphere will be a guarantee for you to spend time together at this place.

Sampireun village located on Jl Raya Samarang Kamojang, District Samarang, Garut, West Java, or about 6 hours from the capital. This place is perfect for couples in love spending time together. At an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level, the cool air will envelop you both. This place was located on the lake, so you can spend time as a couple on a boat with the green nature.

This place has 22 bungalows that are above the edges of the lake. With around Rp 400 thousand to millions of rupiah, you can spend time with friends and enjoy the romance-style feel of Sunda.

9. Ora Island, Maluku

Ora island in North Maluku is not less beautiful with the Maldives. Moreover, in this island resort above the sea as a special place for the newlyweds. Want to try?

A trip to this island is not easy and takes a long time. However, its beauty will make you both stunned silence because of its beauty. Nan clear turquoise seas, becoming the main dish on the island. Underwater nature was really rich!

You can enjoy a longer Ora Island with overnight stay at the resort wood. Uniquely, this resort is not located on land, but directly over the sea. So, when you open the room door in the morning, the sea water as if to invite you to play along. Especially during the day, there is a beautiful fish that is evident as you relax on the terrace resornya. Guaranteed, you'll get unforgettable experience there.

10. Moyo Island, West Nusa Tenggara

One more place honeymoon filled with nuance and beautiful beaches, the island of Moyo in NTB. Many exciting activities that can be done by you and your partner while in this location. Ranging from trekking, diving, to sailing.

Yes, you can explore the jungle with your partner. This will provide sensation for your honeymoon. In addition, oceans and beaches are also very beautiful. The beaches are also still maintained the cleanliness and beauty, so the honeymoon you will feel comfortable and enjoyable.

One of the resorts on the island of Moyo is Amanwana. Although the price reached Rp 8 million per night, guaranteed you will not regret. With the shape of the building resembles a tent, you will spend the night with the couple in the middle of the natural beauty. When you wake up in the morning, white sand will welcome you. Her hotel was very quiet and the atmosphere will not be forgotten.

Indonesia Travel

Suluban Beach: Bali’s Surfers Paradise at Uluwatu

Overview

World-class thrilling waves meet jaw-dropping scenery at the secluded surfers’ paradise of Suluban Beach. Located not too far from the picturesque Uluwatu Temple, this beach is the actual site of the famous Uluwatu surf break. This beach extends right up and joins the Uluwatu Beach. Together they are the Mecca for wave chasing junkees who come to Bali.

Located at the Pecatu Village, in the South Kuta sub-district, Badung Regency, Suluban is among renowned surfing beaches along the Bukit Peninsula at the southern end of Bali that include the Uluwatu Beach, Bingin Beach, Padang-padang Beach, Dreamland Beach, Impossible Beach and Balangan Beach.

The beach is blessed with a breathtaking view on the Indian Ocean which offers a serene atmosphere and spectacular sunsets in the late afternoons, creating that most romantic aura. Approaching the area, visitors will be greeted by afascinating scenery of white rock cliffs that stretch as far as the eyes can see. Descending some 50 meters down to the shore, a vast white sandy beach kissed by turquoise blue waters await, while the pounding waves play the true resounding sounds of nature: the perfect setting for a thrilling surfing adventure.

The character of waves at Suluban Beach is similar to those at Uluwatu Beach that come in with that  great, powerful, long swell and  consistent barrels that have always fascinated surfers who came to this point. Here waves can reach to between 3 and 12 feet with the average wave size being 3 to 5 feet, perfect for advanced and professional surfers. The best season for surfing at Suluban Beach is during the dry session (April to August) when the wind blows from east to west creating the perfect waves for surfing.

The word Suluban comes from the Balinese language “mesulub” which translated means: to bow down. It is suggested that the name was adopted since visitors must first crouch or bow down when they pass the crevice between boulders that resembles a cave, before reaching the beach below the rocky cliff. The Beach is also known by many people as the Blue Point Beach since it is closely associated with the Blue Point Bay Villa located on the top of the cliff which shade Suluban Beach.

Be it for a surfing holiday or a romantic getaway, the waves together with the spectacular scenery at Suluban Beach are indeed a true gem that make Bali sparkle.

Get There

Located at the Bukit Peninsula, Suluban Beach is connected to Kuta and Denpasar through Jimbaran by the busy Jalan Bypass Nusa Dua and this is the only route in. Approximately 34 Kilometers from Denpasar, the beach is about 30 minutes’ drive from the I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport or about 45 minutes from the tourist resorts of Kuta-Legian. 

From Denpasar or Kuta, Take the main road (Jalan Bypass Nusa Dua) south to the junction with Jalan Uluwatu II (the famous McDonald's junction), turn west towards Jimbaran Bay, continue about 2 km and at the four road junction make a sharp left up the hill (signposted for Uluwatu). Follow the road southward until you reach the outer post of Uluwatu Temple where you will find a signpost to Suluban Beach to the right. Follow that road until you reach the Beach.

A taxi from Kuta to Suluban or Uluwatu will take approximately 30 to 40 minutes over winding roads and will cost about Rp 120,000 one-way. If you are just visiting for the day, consider asking the driver to wait for your home trip as it can be difficult to find transport back. Figure on paying the taxi driver Rp 20,000/hour to wait. Joining a tour can be a cheaper way of getting to the area as this destination is very widely offered by tour operators all over the island.

To Eat

Despite its secluded location, eating facilities around Suluban Beach are not hard to find. Restaurants and cafes serving international, Indonesian, and typical Balinese food can be easily found on the path leading down to the shoreline of the beach. Some of these restaurants and cafes have astounding views on the ocean, making it a perfect relaxing place after an exhausting surfing adventure.

 

 

To Stay

he other popular name for Suluban Beach is Blue Point Beach and this is not without reason since if you want to reach the beach you will have to pass the Blue Point Bay villas and spas. Luxury ocean front villas located in the Southern Peninsula of Bali, right on Uluwatu and Suluban Beach facing the Indian Ocean, offer the perfect accommodation if you want to spend your time on Suluban Beach or at the Bukit Peninsula.

Aside from the Blue Point Bay Villas and spas there are also several other accommodation options that you can find near the Suluban Beach. Here are some of the accommodation options available around Suluban Beach:

Blue Point BayVillas & Spa

Jl.Labuansait - Uluwatu, Pecatu, Bali 80364, Indonesia.

Phone: +62 361 769 888, 3009729 ~ 31 (Hunting),

Fax: +62 361 769 889, 3009728

Email: info@bluepointbayvillas.com

Website: http://www.bluepointbayvillas.com

Gong

 Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu (on the main road to Uluwatu Temple about 500 m before the temple gates)

Phone:  +62 361 769976

Email: thegongacc@yahoo.com

Sandat Mas Cottages

 Jl Pantai Suluban, Uluwatu

Phone: +62 361 769965

Email: info@sandatmas.com

Suluban Cliff Bali Villa

Jalan Pantai Suluban No.9, Pecatu, Uluwatu

Email: info@sulubancliffbali.com

Website:  http://www.sulubancliffbal  

 

 

Indonesia Travel

Seven countries participate in the Tomohon International Flower Festival 2015

Seven countries namely the Philippines, India, New Zealand, the United States, France, Poland and Indonesia are confirmed to take part in the International Flower Festival that is scheduled to take place in the Flower City of Tomohon on the slopes of Mt. Lokon, some 22 km from the capital city of Manado, North Sulawesi.

To be held from 8-12 August 2015, highlight of which is the Flowers parade, some 37 floats will roll along the main streets of Tomohon carrying an array of displays in flowers, watched by cheering crowds. Next to international participants are floats from companies, state enterprises, regencies across Indonesia and more.

Prior to the parade a number of exciting and participative activities are being held in town, as follows:  

The  Flower Queen National Pageant, : 7 – 11 August 2015

A Tourism, Investment, Trade, and Floriculture Seminar : 8 – 12 August 2015

Indonesian Cultural Performances: 8 – 12 August 2015

10K run around the Tomohon Linow Lake: on 7 August 2015

 Gateball Tournament:  7^th and  8th August 2015

 Marching Band  Parade to break the Indonesian MURI record : 9th August 2015

Seminar Developing Destinations in East Indonesia (for  APEKSI Komwil VI members): 7^th August 2015 

Seminar on Asian Churches : 7^th and 8th August 2015

To publicize the Flower Parade, the government of Tomohon held a promotional campaign along Kuta Beach on Bali on 24 July to attract foreign tourists who daily flock to Bali , in particular to this popular beach, to also visit Tomohon as another attractive Indonesian destination.

This biannual event which was started in 2008 has gained plenty of popularity since.

The town of Tomohon is a cool mountain resort covering 35 villages and 5 sub-districts. Because of its refreshing and cool climate, houses along the road are seen decorated with pretty and colorful flowers.   Tomohon is also the center for Christian religious learning. 

When in Tomohon do visit its traditional market which offers a wide variety of flowers, vegetables and meats.  As for food, North Sulawesi is famous for its mouth-watering food, so there are many restaurants here to choose from. But Muslims do beware, though, as the population here is mostly Christian, many restaurants serve pork.

To get to Tomohon, there are plenty of taxis and public transportation that ply between Manado and Tomohon.  Daily flights serve Manado from Jakarta, Bali and other main cities.

Indonesia Travel

Bandung Culinary Guide

Overview

Many people visit Bandung, the capital of West Java province, to pamper their taste buds. You'll be amazed with what Bandung has to offer. From various food sold on street vendors to haute cuisine, every visitor will be able to find something to their liking here, in Bandung.

Sundanese (the people living in West Java are called Sundanese) has tempting refreshments. Sundanese food tends to be bland yet tasty unless you add sambal dadak (chili and other ingredients grinded together) to your food. If you're looking for more spicy taste, just add this sambal dadak with nasi timbel (steamed rice formed into a roll inside a banana leaf) and other specialties. This mouthwatering treat is too good to be missed! Usually sour vegetables soup (sayur asam) is accompanied by nasi timbel.

Sundanese people eat vegetables a lot. Sometimes they even eat raw vegetables (called lalap or lalapan) like cucumbers, tomatoes, coriander leaves, eggplants, cabbages, lettuces, and so on. Lalapan is usually accompanied by sambal dadak.

Probably one of the most well known dish, timbel, consists of nasi timbel, lalapan, sambal dadak, a piece of chicken (fried or roasted Sundanese style), fried beancurd, fried tempeh, a slice of jambal (salted fish). If you want to, you can add gepuk (slices of beef, mixed in traditional herbs, then fried), pepes (main ingredients such as fish, chicken, mushroom, etc. mixed with crushed and blended herbs, folded into a banana leaf, then steamed until they're ready to eat), sauteed greens, and others. Nasi timbel is a favorite among locals and visitors. Batagor baso tahu goreng (literally means, fried meatballs & beancurd) is one of the most well-sought specialty. Made from blended fish and beancurd, with a special peanut sauce, batagor's popularity remains constant.

People with sweet tooth might fancy pisang molen, an Indonesian traditional pastry filled with banana and cheese. For a variation, try brownies kukus (steamed brownies). Es cendol, made of blended/grinded rice, palm sugar, and coconut milk, is delightful on a hot day. While for a colder day, you might want a taste of bandrek or bajigur.

Bandung also offers various milk products most notably, yoghurt. Basically there are two kinds of yoghurt in Bandung the thin one, and the thick one (French style).

Hot snacks ala Bandung are widely sold throughout the city. Among them are gehu-toge tahu- (beancurd with beansprouts and vegetables filling), pisang goreng (fried banana), cireng-aci goreng- (fried tapioca), and many more. You might be interested in trying other snacks such as, nangka goreng (fried jackfruit), peuyeum goreng (fermented cassava, fried), nanas goreng (fried pineapple), and so on. Ketan bakar (roasted sticky rice) and jagung bakar/rebus (roasted/boiled corns) are also recommended.

Nasi goreng (fried rice), although not originally from Bandung, is always the locals' favorite. The ingredients vary, according to people's preference. Sometimes the rice is mixed with seafood (usually shrimps, pieces of cuttlefish, pieces of crab's flesh), chicken and vegetables, mutton and vegetables, salted fish, and so on.

Cakue, a dish made of flour dough then fried, is also worth a try.

Bandung also has other kinds of restaurants, like Padangese (food from West Sumatra, very spicy in taste), Javanese (sweeter in taste), Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Western, Indian, and so on.

Get There

Fondly called Parahyangan meaning, Land of the Gods, Bandung has both metropolitan and homey atmosphere at the same time. Full of eateries, factory outlets, and malls, many people find going on a trip to Bandung both enjoyable and memorable.

Ways to reach Bandung from Jakarta may be as many as to Rome, so to speak. You can ride trains, buses, or use the many shuttle services with hourly schedules. Flights are less favored because the time it takes to travel to Jakarta's airport (Soekarno Hatta) and check in may take longer than travelling by car.

To Eat

For a taste of nasi timbel and other Sundanese food, you can try the restaurants mentioned below. There are many others, though, so while you're in Bandung, you might be able to spot other restaurants selling tasty food.

BUMBU DESA

Jalan Pasirkaliki 160, Bandung

Jalan Laswi 1, Bandung

Traditional food with elegant surrounding.

BALE GAZEEBO

Jalan Surapati 49

Wide place, where you can eat while lesehan (sitting on the floor without chairs) or using a chair.

SINDANG RERET

Jalan Raya Cikole Km 22

Jalan Raya Propinsi Ciwidey, Kabupaten Bandung

Jalan Surapati 53

One of the most famous Sundanese restaurants in Bandung.

SAUNG KABAYAN

Jalan Dr. Junjunan 107, Bandung

Modernized Sundanese cooking.

SARI PARAHYANGAN

Jalan L.L.R.E. Martadinata (Riau) 156-158

Jalan Soekarno-Hatta 408

Good, plain Sundanese cooking.

KELAPA LAGOON

Jalan Sumatera 9

Chic place. Tasty but the price is higher than other Sundanese restaurants.

Sari Sunda is a restaurant chain in Bandung that Serve typical  West Java's Sundanese food in elegant surroundings:

Sari Sunda Soekarno Hatta, 

Jl. Soekarno Hatta no 479B, South Bandung 

Tel: +62 22 7300696

Sari Sunda Setiabudhi
Jl. Dr. Setiabudi No. 86/88 B. North Bandung

Tel.: 62 22 2034263

Sari Sunda Lengkong 

Jl. Lengkong Besar no 77, Central Bandung 

Tel: +62 22 4238125

To Stay

Bandung has it all, cozy little inns to five-starred hotels. Just click the Find a Hotel button.

Tips

If you plan to go to Bandung often, buy a complete map in major book stores. It's a great investment. That way you might save some money. Instead of renting a car, for instance, you can maximize the public transportation to bring you anywhere you want to go.

• If you're not certain of local customs, language, menu, etc. don't hesitate to ask!
• It is advisable to learn a few important phrases in Indonesian. Not all Indonesians can speak English well.

To Buy

Bandung mainly offers food and drink as souvenirs. Visit these stores to grab the famous keripik tempeh, keripik oncom, sale pisang, dodol, and other delicacies:

RAOS, KARYA UMBI

Both are located in Jalan Cihampelas.

Jalan Cihampelas happens to be the central of jeans stores, so you might want to look around some more. And there's more of course. Which is why Bandung is the shopping capital of West Java.

Get Around

If you have multiple destinations in mind, you'd better rent a car for a day (or two). There are taxi services in major streets and malls. Other parts of the cities mostly use public transportation called angkots, which are only recommended if you actually live in Bandung.

Indonesia Travel

The Surreal Madakaripura Waterfall, vestige of the great Majapahit Kingdom

Overview
Leaving misty Mount Bromo behind and descending into the Probolinggo Regency, one will find a spectacular sight secluded within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park: this is the enchanting Madakaripura Waterfall.

Believed to be the final meditation place of military Commander-in-Chief, Gajah Mada, of the great Javanese kingdom of Majapahit in East Java, the towering waterfall is fondly dubbed the eternal waterfall, since its waters never cease to pour down an endless rain of blessings on those fortunate enough to walk underneath it.

Located not too far from Mount Bromo near the village of Sapih, in the Lombang district, Madakaripura Waterfall is about three hours’ drive from the capital of East Java, Surabaya. The spectacular waterfall lies hidden at the end of a deep valley in the foothills of the Tengger mountain range. To reach this, visitors must trek about 20 minutes crossing rivers and a rocky path, set amongst beautiful sceneries along the way, before reaching the entrance. Here a statue of Majapahit‘s great Commander, Gajah Mada, in the seated position of deep meditation greets visitors before they continue further on foot.

An atmosphere of natural grandeur radiates around as the waterfall comes into view. As the rumbling sounds of water grows louder, a spellbinding feature of water curtains cover the path, that will not only please the eyes but also freshen body and soul. Here, nature gracefully pours her endless refreshing gifts, making getting wet quite inevitable. While it may be best to be ready with raincoats or umbrellas, stalls along the trekking path will offer umbrella rentals and plastic bags to protect valuables, such as cameras.

The path ends in a surreal tube-like valley where the staggering 200 meters gallant waterfall highlights the scene. Decorated with a cave on the wall which was believed to be the exact location where Commander in Chief Gajah Mada performed his last meditation, Madakaripura Waterfall is even dubbed as the tallest waterfall in Javaand the second tallest waterfall in Indonesia after Sigura-gura Waterfall near Lake Toba, North Sumatra. While the waterfall’s sheer height is by itself already a wonder, the ambience around the area is truly something that needs to be experienced first-hand to be believed.

Surrounded by outstandingly high walls, the Fall flows down into an almost mystical natural chamber. Inside the 200 meters “chamber”, the reflected sunlight shining through onto the wet green moss on the rocky wall accompanied by the ever rumbling sounds of water creates a spectacle unlikely found elsewhere. Decorated with huge boulders, endlessly falling water, and sparkling moss, one only needs to gaze up to the distant sky and immerse oneself in the spellbinding beauty of nature. While the fascinating scene can be captured on camera, the true sensation of being in one of the most outstanding places on earth can only be felt by being there.             

According to ancient Javanese 14^th century epic poem, Negarakretagama, Madakaripura was a piece of land given to Commander Gajah Mada by the Majapahit King Hayam Wuruk. Gajah Mada himself is the most celebrated military commander in the history of the great Javanese Majapahit Kingdom that thrived between 1293 to 1500AD.  Its commander is recognized as the main figure who succeeded in unifying the entire Indonesian Archipelago then under the huge Majapahit empire (that at the time was said to stretch until Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Southern Thailand , the Philippines and East Timor) under his famous oath the “Sumpah Palapa”.

It is said that the source of his overwhelming power and abilities lie within the cave of the Madakaripura Waterfall, where Gajah Mada frequently came to meditate. The great commander eventually chose the place as his last place for mediation before he was believed to have been –what ancient Javanese believed- “Muksha” -  or vanished spiritually and physically from the face of the earth, rather than just dying  physically.  To honor this legacy, many people still visit the Falls to meditate or perform rituals, especially on the eve of 1 Suro, the Javanese New Year.

As a place that is historically significant, culturally sacred, and naturally spellbinding, Madakaripura is simply a must, when you visit East Java.

Get There

The best way to get to Madakaripura Waterfall is to rent a car from Surabaya or Malang, or include it in the tour package along with Mount Bromo. From Surabaya, capital of East Java, the trip will take a little over three hours, by taking the intercity route to Sidoarjo-Porong-Pasuruan-Probolinggo. Upon reaching Tongas, there will be a sign directing to both Mount Bromo and Madakaripura Waterfall to the right. The intersection is marked by a small monument in the center of the road. Follow the road for about 20-30 minutes until you reach another sign pointing to Madakaripura Waterfall to the right. From there the road is a bit narrow, but the view will be most pleasing. Follow the road until you reach the entrance to the Madakaripura Waterfall.

To Stay

Its close proximity to Mount Bromo means that there are plenty of accommodation options around Mount Bromo that can also serve as staging point to the Madakaripura Waterfall. You can refer to our to stay and find a hotel in Mount Bromo to see the accommodation options around Mount Bromo. Other accommodations available within the regency of Probolinggo are:

Bromo Home Stay

Jl. Ngadisari Probolinggo

Phone : +62 335 541022

Cemara Indah

Cemorolawang, Ngadisari Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 541019

Sakura

Jl. Panglima Sudirman, Kraksaan

Phone +62-335 841257

Sang Dimur

Ds. Ngepung – Sukapura – Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 581193

Saragih

Jl. Raya Paiton Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 843020

Dhimas

Jl. Raya Dringu 55 Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 425357

Lava View

Cemorolawang, Ngadisari Sukapura

Phone +62-335 541009,541020

New Panorama

Jl. Raya Lemah Kembar Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 421517

Paiton Asri

Jl. Raya Binor 147 Paiton Probolinggo

Sukapura Permai

Desa Sukapura Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 581067

Ucik Tengger

Ds.Wonotoro – Ngadisari

Phone +62-335 541014 , 428306

Fax. +62-335 431491

Yochis

Ds. Krajan Wonokerto 01

Ngadisari Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 541018

Sukapura Hotel

Jl. Raya Bromo 135 Sukapura Probolinggo

Phone +62-335 561067